26521, Blacksville, West Virginia Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 26521, Blacksville, West Virginia is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

25.86 percent of residents in 26521 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mon Health Medical Center with a distance of 15.09 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 26521 (Blacksville, WV)

This report provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for residents of Blacksville, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26521), focusing on the critical element of healthcare access. Access to quality medical care is a cornerstone of community well-being, and this analysis examines the ease with which residents can reach essential healthcare services, considering the unique transportation landscape of this rural area. The score reflects a multifaceted evaluation, factoring in drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services. This information is vital for current residents and those considering moving to Blacksville, providing a clear picture of the healthcare accessibility landscape.

The Overall Health Score for 26521 is significantly influenced by its geographical location. Blacksville, nestled within Monongalia County, experiences the typical challenges of a rural community, including limited public transportation and longer travel times to access a wide range of healthcare specialists. This report aims to provide a comprehensive overview, acknowledging these challenges while highlighting the available resources and opportunities.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Transportation Route**

For most residents of 26521, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation for healthcare appointments. The road network, while adequate, necessitates careful planning due to the distances involved. The primary route to Morgantown, the nearest hub for comprehensive healthcare, involves navigating several key roadways. Residents typically begin their journey on **WV-7**, a vital east-west thoroughfare connecting Blacksville to Morgantown. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays due to traffic or inclement weather.

The drive to Morgantown, approximately 20 miles, usually takes between 30 to 45 minutes under normal conditions. Upon reaching Morgantown, travelers often utilize **US-19**, which connects to various healthcare facilities. The presence of several traffic lights and the potential for congestion, especially during peak hours, should be factored into travel time. Additional routes, such as **WV-218**, provide alternative access to Morgantown, though these roads may be less direct and can be affected by seasonal weather conditions. The condition of the roads and the distance to healthcare facilities are critical factors impacting healthcare access.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Increased Challenges**

Public transportation options in 26521 are extremely limited. The Monongalia County Transit Authority (MCTA) provides some service, but the routes and frequency of service to Blacksville are minimal. This presents a significant barrier for residents who do not own vehicles or are unable to drive. The current routes available are infrequent and may not align with the schedules of medical appointments.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant features on the MCTA buses is a crucial consideration. While the MCTA strives to provide accessible transportation, the sparse service to Blacksville can still pose difficulties for individuals with disabilities. Detailed information on specific routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility can be obtained directly from the MCTA. The lack of robust public transit options underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions to improve healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Morgantown area, but their presence in Blacksville is less reliable. Availability can fluctuate depending on the time of day and demand. Residents may experience longer wait times or higher fares compared to urban areas. Therefore, relying solely on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments is not always feasible.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for those needing assistance. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. Some of the prominent medical transportation brands serving the area include local and regional providers. However, availability and cost can vary, and advance booking is usually required. The utilization of these services significantly enhances healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

**Healthcare Access: Assessing the Landscape**

The availability of healthcare facilities within 26521 itself is limited. Residents typically need to travel to Morgantown or other nearby communities to access a full range of medical services, including primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, and urgent care centers. This necessitates careful planning and coordination of transportation. The distance to these facilities and the availability of transportation options directly impact healthcare access.

The quality of healthcare in the Morgantown area is generally considered good, with access to a major hospital system, WVU Medicine. However, the distance and transportation challenges can still create barriers to care. The Overall Health Score reflects these realities, acknowledging the need for residents to overcome geographical obstacles to receive necessary medical attention.

**Moving to Blacksville: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Blacksville, the issue of healthcare access is a critical factor. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and assess their ability to travel to Morgantown or other healthcare providers. Those who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations should carefully investigate the available options and plan accordingly.

The lack of readily available healthcare services within the immediate vicinity is a significant consideration. Individuals with chronic health conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments should factor in the travel time and transportation costs when making their decision. The Overall Health Score provides a valuable insight into the healthcare accessibility challenges and helps prospective residents make informed choices.

**Overall Health Score Summary and Recommendations**

The Overall Health Score for 26521 reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. The primary reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit and ride-sharing options, creates challenges for many residents. The drive times to Morgantown, while manageable, can be a barrier for those without personal transportation. The lack of readily available healthcare services within Blacksville further compounds these challenges.

**Recommendations:**

* **Advocate for Improved Public Transportation:** Encourage the MCTA to expand its service to Blacksville, increasing frequency and route coverage.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Awareness:** Educate residents about the availability and limitations of ride-sharing services.
* **Support Medical Transportation:** Partner with medical transportation providers to ensure adequate service and affordability.
* **Explore Telemedicine Options:** Encourage the use of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person visits.
* **Community Partnerships:** Foster collaboration between healthcare providers, transportation services, and community organizations to improve healthcare access.

By addressing these challenges and implementing the recommendations, the community can work towards improving the Overall Health Score for 26521 and ensuring that all residents have access to the healthcare they need. The commitment to improving transportation and healthcare access will enhance the quality of life for all residents of Blacksville and make it a more attractive community for those considering moving there.